A total of 60 primigravid women due to undergo early pregnancy termination (6.5 to 10 weeks) were randomly selected for the intracervical application of 0.5 mg dinoprostone in the form of intracervical gel (Prepidil gel, Upjohn). The gel was inserted 6 hours prior to vacuum aspiration. Before application all women had the cervix closed, i.e. dilated less than Hegar #3. After 6 hours there was noticed a marked cervical softening and dilatation (mean 9.28 mm) in all 60 cases (100%). Twelve (20%) women needed an additional mechanical dilatation which was performed very easily and atraumatically. An incomplete abortion occurred in 14 (23.33%) cases; 35 (58.33%) women had uterine cramps, and in 28 (46.66%) gastrointestinal side effects were recorded. There were no significant changes in the blood pressure or body temperature. During the procedure there were no complications.